Dear Northside
Last week the USA celebrated their Independence, celebrating their freedom. But what is freedom?
Everyone thinks about freedom differently. Most people would say freedom is a virtue that should be sought, but that idea changes depending on how it’s defined. A lot of people think freedom is the absence of restraints. We are truly free when we are free from things that hold us back. Others define freedom by our human will—if we can choose what we want, then we can be free.
These ideas are a bit different from what we find in Scripture. According to God’s Word, freedom is found wherever God is found. Freedom is found when we live according to God’s original design for our life. When we begin our life with Jesus, He gives us a new heart and way to live. He also sends the Spirit of God to live within us. Paul says in 2 Corinthians 3:17 that wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is true freedom. That means all of us who believe in Jesus have access to this freedom.
Freedom doesn’t come from doing whatever we want but from living according to the Spirit of God who lives within us.
Paul goes on to say that those of us who belong to the Lord should spend time in God’s presence. It’s only when we sit with God daily that we are transformed by Him. Through God’s Word and talking with Him, we have access to true life transformation and true freedom.
Can you identify one or two things that are holding you back from living this way? It may be an unresolved conflict or a recurring sin. Whatever it is, spend some time with God today, asking for forgiveness and seeking out your next steps. Spend time in His presence through prayer and reading Scripture. Your life will be transformed if you continue to spend time with the only One who can thoroughly change you.
Please make an appointment to see one of the Pastors if you want to talk about this or any other issue.
Please note that Shephard is away for the rest of the month. Gary is away from 18 to 26 July and Eddie Smith (elder) is also away until early August. Please pray for Pastor Vere and the staff team as they fill in the gaps.
Please do not forget the Evangelism Symposium on 20th July organised by Doulos, but for everyone. Also, our Carboot Sale in support of the Décor and Food Pantry ministries. Members do not forget the OGM on the 28th after the service. What has God been doing in and through His church here at Northside? Come and get excited and challenged – all are welcome.
Please pray for the finances of the church and how God would like you to be part of the solving our current deficit. We had to borrow funds this week to pay some of our Statutory bills.
May mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance. God bless. Pastor Gary